Downey firefighters assist at La Habra Heights brush fire

L.A. County Fire Department photo

An investigation was underway Tuesday into the cause of a brush fire in La Habra Heights that burned roughly 17 acres and destroyed three homes, with the Downey Fire Department among the agencies assisting at the scene.

Downey dispatched Medic Engine 64 after receiving a mutual aid request Monday afternoon.

The fire was reported about 2:30 p.m. near Lupin Hill Road and Las Palomas Drive, according to the Los Angeles County Fire Department. County crews assisted the La Habra Heights Fire Department in battling the blaze.

A second alarm was requested at 3 p.m., according to a county fire dispatcher.

The fire forced the evacuation of at least six homes. Evacuees were directed to nearby Los Altos High School at 15325 Robles Ave. in Hacienda Heights, according to a deputy at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Industry station.

In addition to the three homes destroyed, another home was partially damaged and two outbuildings sustained significant damage, according to a Los Angeles County Fire Department captain at the scene.

A firefighter was injured while battling the blaze, and a civilian was also injured. Both were expected to recover. Crews said another person was evaluated at the scene.

Firefighters also worked to rescue a horse trapped on a property in the area.

An evacuation warning was issued at 3:40 p.m. for residents east of Colima Road and south of Hacienda Boulevard.

By early evening, most of the active flames had been extinguished, and the evacuation warning was lifted soon afterward.